With all our debate over the definitive 200 albums, it's easy to forget that the music on them was made by actual people and not abstract figures. Brad Delp, who sang lead vocals on Boston's 1976 self-titled album (No. 43 on the list) was found dead in his home in New Hampshire March 9 at age 55. Classic-rock radio staples like "More Than a Feeling" and "Peace of Mind" may have hinged on Tom Scholz's crystalline production and multitracked guitar parts, but Delp's soaring vocals are what had millions of teens singing along in their Trans Ams. Boston's grandiose arena rock hasn't aged all that well, but their influence filtered down to bands like Journey and Night Ranger and went a long way in defining the big rock sound of the '80s. The New York Times has a good obit you can read here. You can also check out the band's note on the official Boston Web site, as well as a public statement by Delp's family.
-- David Marchese
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